Marking And Tagging

Marking & Tagging

Old Guard Collar Meanings

Written by Papa Woof Roth

To me a collar is the icing on the cake. You don’t have to have it, but when it’s earned, it’s amazing. My pup and I actually wear each others collars and our wedding rings are on our locks. I was taught the Old Guard Collar meanings and still believe in that today – here are the definitions. There are various types of collars, and not all are used in every relationship – it really is the personal choice of the Dominant.

The different types of collars are as follows:

Collar of Protection

A collar of protection is denoted by the initials of the protecting Dominant and a small P to signify that protection. It means that the submissive is under the protection of that particular Dominant, often due to a failed or abusive relationship, or the fact that he/she maybe being stalked or harassed. Wearing a protection collar gives the submissive time to heal if needed, and the security of knowing he/she is safe when out and about, as he/she is under protection. He/she is literally unapproachable without the knowledge of the protecting Dominant. Usually, it is a Dominant of high standing in the community that is approached for, or offers protection. There is no time limit on a collar of protection, it is there for as long as it is needed.

Collar of Consideration

A collar of consideration is often the very first step in a potential new relationship between a Dominant and submissive. This collar is usually worn for an agreed period of time, and at the end of that time, it can be renegotiated, or the relationship can go to the next step, or both parties can decide to go separate ways. A collar of consideration is not offered or accepted lightly, it denotes more than just a casual interest and both parties should understand the underlying meaning behind this commitment. It is an indication to other Dominants that this submissive is basically off limits whilst in the “consideration” period, and it signifies the beginning of a potentially committed relationship. It is not, however, a lifelong commitment, and there should never be any blame attached to either party, if at some stage one or other decides to withdraw from the situation.

Training collar

A training collar is the second step, and will be offered by the Dominant, usually after a consideration collar has been in place for a certain period and the next level is agreed upon. Usually, there will have been many discussions about likes, dislikes, needs and desires, and discoveries about personalities and characteristics, with the underlying factor that there is real potential for this relationship to go deeper, and more committed than before. A training collar is almost equivalent to an engagement ring, and usually involves the same emotions, feelings and responsibilities. It signifies to other Dominants and submissives that this relationship is now on a more serious level, and has the potential to be a long term commitment. The Dominant may now move into other areas of training and discipline and can often demand higher standards from the submissive than before. The submissive, on accepting a training collar, should have a good understanding of what is required of her – and should be very much aware that her behaviour is a reflection of the training he/she is receiving from the Dominant whose collar he/she wears. The collar is also a symbol of the devotion and commitment the submissive has for the Dominant. At this stage, there can often be conflicts in the minds of both Dominant and submissive. The Dominant now has the added responsibility of this particular submissive, and it may well curtail His exploration of other submissives, unless of course it is agreed beforehand that there will be others involved. The submissive can struggle to reconcile her mind to her submission, and her commitment to one person. He/she is no longer available for other potential Dominants, and this can lead to feelings of less personal freedom in her life than before. Subconscious testing of the relationship’s strength is often an underlying current, as both parties want to see how strong the commitment is. Insecurities and doubts are brought to attention, and often raise their ugly heads when there is no need. These elements must be faced and conquered if the relationship is to move to the next and final step. Honesty and trust are paramount in any relationship, but more so at this stage as this is the final building block for the ultimate final step.
A training collar can also be used in another way. A Dominant can give a training collar to a particular submissive, in order to train and mentor her in correct behaviour and protocols whilst he/she is searching for her ideal Dominant with whom he/she will then pursue a serious lifelong D/s relationship. The mentoring Dominant will help in the search, and will give advice and training whilst doing so. This submissive is treated as if owned by the Mentoring Dominant, until such times as he/she is released to another. Again, as with protection collars, it is usually a Dominant of high standing and respect that becomes a Mentor.

Formal collar

This collar which is often known as the slave collar, is the ultimate goal and final step in a D/s relationship. A formal collar is a recognition of the bond and attachment between the Dominant and submissive and bears the same level of commitment and deep feelings as a wedding ring. It shows devotion, mutual respect, and expresses the fact that the Dominant and submissive have the same ideals and desires to share their lives. In giving this collar, the Dominant shows His commitment to care for the submissive, and be responsible for her. Acceptance of this collar by the submissive, is an offering of her complete submission to the Dominant, he/she gives the whole girl to him, heart, mind body and soul, and trusts Him to with her life. It signifies trust, respect and commitment, elements that are crucial to a successful D/s relationship. A formal collar is often given at a ceremony in front of friends and other D/s community members. It is a deeply emotional and heartfelt time for both parties, and it is an honour to be invited to such a ceremony.